Edwards Angell, Wildman Harrold in Advanced Merger Talks

Emphasizing that there is no final deal yet--and no formal agreement that would go to a partnership vote--the firms said in a joint statement they have been in "serious discussions" since early 2011.

"Both of the legacy firms would bring complementary strengths and clients to a new enterprise," the statement said. "EAPD would offer an established corporate and IP platform to Wildman's litigation clients, particularly in private equity and venture capital, life sciences, and insurance. In addition, EAPD would lend its formidable geographic scope in the U.S., U.K. and Asia."

A newly combined firm would number 650 attorneys, a statement from the firms notes. According to the most recent NLJ 250 ranking, Edwards Angell has a total of 507 attorneys, while Wildman Harrold has 160.